AMHERST - The Select Board has thanked Town Manager Laurence R. Shaffer for another year of service while presenting a mostly outstanding evaluation of his job performance.

The only area that was less than outstanding involved staff morale and personnel management.

In presenting her composite compiled from the evaluation of board members, board Chairwoman Stephanie J. O'Keeffe noted improvement over last year, which she said is appreciated, but said there still needs to be further progress.

"Mr. Shaffer did a tremendous job with budget management and development," she said. She also praised his work with the board and for his improved communication. Shaffer has been giving a report at every Select Board meeting of various meetings he attends as well as updates on issues.

The board also praised his relationships with the two colleges and the University of Massachusetts, other communities and town community groups. She asked Shaffer to respond to his evaluation at the board's next meeting Sept. 14.

The board also talked about ways to increase the number of employees who evaluated the manager as well. Last year, 70 submitted evaluations but this year just 45, about 16 percent of the work force.

Shaffer thanked the board for the evaluation.

"I appreciate all your kind comments. ... I take this all very seriously. I consider it an honor and privilege to serve the citizens of the community."

He said he takes the comments regarding his need to improve his relationships with staff seriously as well.

"It's much easier dealing with the budget issues, these (areas) I can control. ... Relationships are two-way," he said.

He also said, "I inherited an organizational culture ... a distinct organizational culture. It's taken me a while to get my feet under me to understand (it.)

"Some of the values I would like to change, others I need to embrace and celebrate," he said. He also told the board, "there were some rocky times."

Shaffer was named town manager in January 2006 and started work in July 2006. He replaced Barry L. Del Castilho, who left in March 2006 after more than 23 years as town manager.

Selectmen plan discuss a contract extension with Shaffer at their next meeting.